In the process of mitosis, which stages occur? Describe each stage.

Mitosis is a form of cell division that produces genetically identical cells and it includes 4 main stages. Before Mitosis can occur the cell undergoes Interphase, in which DNA and organelles are replicated and energy (ATP) is stored.

The first stage of Mitosis is Prophase, in which DNA condenses into chromosomes and centrioles (proteins) move to opposite poles of the cell to form spindle fibres, whilst the nuclear envelope breaks down.

Then Metaphase occurs: chromosomes line up vertically on the spindle fibres, attached via their centromere.

The third stage is Anaphase, in which the centromeres divide to separate the chromosomes into sister chromatids, which are then pulled to opposite poles.

Finally, Telophase occurs when the chromatids reach the poles and they uncoil. A nuclear envelope forms around each group to form 2 separate nuclei and the cytoplasm divides in cytokinesis to form 2 genetically identical daughter cells.

The cell cycle is repeated as daughter cells return to Interphase to undergo Mitosis again.